Fiji Times fined $5000 for decree breach

The Suva Magistrates Court has ordered Fiji Times Limited to pay a $5000 fine within 28 days, for breaching the Media Industry Development Decree.

The media company’s Director Mahendra Patel went to Australia in 2011 and did not return which led to the breach of the Media Industry Development Decree.

The matter has been adjourned to 28th of June for a review.

Under the decree, Fiji citizens permanently residing in Fiji means a’ person residing in the country for 3 out of the last 7 years prior to registration of the media company and thereafter residing in Fiji for at least 6 out of 12 months of a year’.